Making a splash with Dragon Boat fund-raiser

Head of fund-raising Gina King said: “We have decided to make a change this year to hopefully attract more teams as you will only need six people for a boat instead of 11 and also the cost of entering a team is a lot cheaper – now only £60 per boat."

THERE’S nothing half so much worth doing as messing about in boats - and chariy Living Without Abuse (LWA) have made it so hopefully even more people will take part in their boat festival in Barrow on June 6.

For the past few years the organisation which helps the victims of domestic abuse locally has held a Dragon Boat race as a fundraiser.

That meant those taking part had to find 11 to 13 people to enter.

But this year the Loughborough based charity has changed it slightly so you only need six people in one boat.

Welcome to LWA’s Dongala Boat Festival.

Head of fund-raising Gina King said: “We have decided to make a change this year to hopefully attract more teams as you will only need six people for a boat instead of 11 and also the cost of entering a team is a lot cheaper – now only £60 per boat.

“However we do ask that each person raises £50 sponsorship money and all of the money raised does go to LWA.”

A long with the actual event, there’s also a fun day that goes along the River Soar in Barrow which anyone is able to attend.

Gina continued: “We’ve been doing the race since 2009, and I think our best year is when we raised about £15,000 to help the victims of domestic abuse.

“So this year we’ll be looking to top that. We’re aiming to get 60 teams racing on the day.

“If you have a few friends then why not get them to take part. Groups and companies will always be welcome.

“Also, if you don’t fancy getting in the boat, if anybody wants to help out with our volunteering team then please also get in touch.

“On the day, as well as the racing, there will be various games and activities like a bouncy castle, carousel, lots of stalls and some live music.

“This is my first event as Head of Fundraising and it’s going to be a great day.”

For more information visit www.giving-back.co.uk/dongola-boat-festival/about-event.asp